By some accounts, San Francisco is the #1 dog friendliest city in the country. And we believe it. Did you know that SF has 28 (28!!) off-leash dog parks in just 49 square miles? Dating with a dog in tow doesn’t have to be a drag. Take advantage of the City by the Bay’s notoriously wacky-but-kind-of-pleasant weather (we see you, Karl) and get out there. There’s a lot to see.

Hit Up a Dog Friendly Watering Hole

If you want to grab a drink before you commit to dinner, the city’s got plenty of dog-friendly options to choose from that aren’t, you know, your grubby balcony. The Homestead is a Mission “dive” that’s got a British feel and an always-lively atmosphere. Churchill near Duboce Triangle has a classy vibe that’s perfect if you’re not sure how fancy your date will turn out. El Rio is a dog friendly Mission mainstay that offers plenty of fun activities like ping pong or shuffleboard in case the conversation gets a little awkward.

Stroll Down Ocean Beach

One of the easiest and most low-key options for a (free!) date in SF is a stroll down Ocean Beach. Yes, your pooch is allowed off-leash on certain parts of the beach but beware: rip tides are strong and nothing ruins a date like having to Baywatch your dog. If you’re looking for something a little less crowded, check out one of the many other great dog friendly beaches in the Bay Area.

Bring a Blanket to Dolores Park

A fantastic option for a day date, Dolores Park is always teeming with people and pets. It’s off-leash, so don’t go unless your dog can behave herself. We suggest bringing a picnic blanket, packing a few tennis balls, and stopping at Bi-Rite Creamery on your way in for some organic, unusually flavored (totally San Franciscan) ice cream.

Hang Out at Spark Social

Spark Social is a a one-of-a-kind food truck + beer garden in Mission Bay and it’s always hoppin’. You and your date will have 10+ food trucks to choose from and there’s always something going on, from the bouncy house to fire pits to massive TVs to watch the game on. Well-behaved pups are always allowed!

Be a Tourist

One of the best and most unusual date ideas is to take a city tour…in your own city. Thankfully, SF has a number of tour operators that gladly welcome pets! Wild SF Tours has a ton of cool walking tours to help you really get to know your city. SF Native Tours are (you guessed it), led by a fifth-generation SF native and they include food! Dogs are allowed on their private tours only.